Blooming in the Crack

“A petunia is growing and blooming in a crack in our concrete patio,” Doris reported.

“How’d that happen?” I asked.

“I don’t know. I don’t have any petunias growing in our yard. Maybe the wind blew a seed into the crack.”

When she first noticed the small plant, she left it alone to see what would happen. The plant grew and bloomed profusely all summer. It provided a bright red spot on the plain, grey concrete patio.

There are people around us who have been hurt, deceived, taken advantage of, or rejected. To protect themselves they build up a hard exterior like concrete. With God’s help and guidance, we can deliver a seed of life to them. Watch for opportunities to love and help them. If a person arrives late at the office, we can deliver their mail or take them a cup of coffee. Listen when they want to talk. Express compassion.

When they open up a little, drop in a seed of understanding, love, kindness, graciousness, or helpfulness. As we pray for the seed to take root, eventually the person’s true beauty will show forth as they grow and bloom. God knows the best way to break down a person’s hard exterior. Our job is to show them God’s love.

"No one lights a lamp and puts it in a place where it will be hidden, or under a bowl. Instead he puts it on its stand, so that those who come in may see the light.” Luke 11:33 (NIV)

Helen L. Hoover